skilled

Path to PR

Points-based

Express Entry

Express Entry is Canada's flagship immigration system for skilled workers. It manages applications for three federal economic immigration programs: Federal Skilled Worker, Canadian Experience Class, and Federal Skilled Trades.

Processing time

26 weeks

Application fee

CAD 1,365

Family

Yes

Work immediately

Yes

Biometrics fee: CAD 85. Medical exam: ~CAD 300. Language tests: ~CAD 300-400

Requirements

Valid passport
Language test results (IELTS/CELPIP or TEF/TCF)
Educational Credential Assessment (ECA)
Proof of work experience
Proof of funds
Police clearance certificates
Medical examination

Application steps

1
Check eligibility and calculate CRS score
2
Take language tests (IELTS/CELPIP)
3
Get Educational Credential Assessment
4
Create Express Entry profile
5
Wait for Invitation to Apply (ITA)
6
Submit complete application within 60 days
7
Complete medical exam and biometrics
8
Receive Confirmation of Permanent Residence

Frequently asked questions

What is a good CRS score for Express Entry?

As of 2026, general draws have cutoffs around 480-520 CRS. Category-based draws for specific occupations can be lower (400-480).

How long does Express Entry take?

Processing time is typically 6 months after receiving ITA. The profile creation and waiting for ITA can take 3-12 months depending on your score.

Where this comes from

Official

IRCC — Express EntryVerified Mar 1, 2025

Official

IRCC — CRS ToolVerified Mar 1, 2025

Official

IRCC — Processing TimesVerified Mar 1, 2025

What this does not include: Provincial nuances, recent rule changes, and edge cases. Always cross-check the official IRCC page before submitting.

What would change this answer: An IRCC policy update, a new fee schedule, or a category-specific draw round.

skilled

Path to PR

Points-based

Express Entry

Processing time

26 weeks

Application fee

CAD 1,365

Family

Yes

Work immediately

Yes

Biometrics fee: CAD 85. Medical exam: ~CAD 300. Language tests: ~CAD 300-400

Requirements

Valid passport
Language test results (IELTS/CELPIP or TEF/TCF)
Educational Credential Assessment (ECA)
Proof of work experience
Proof of funds
Police clearance certificates
Medical examination

Application steps

1
Check eligibility and calculate CRS score
2
Take language tests (IELTS/CELPIP)
3
Get Educational Credential Assessment
4
Create Express Entry profile
5
Wait for Invitation to Apply (ITA)
6
Submit complete application within 60 days
7
Complete medical exam and biometrics
8
Receive Confirmation of Permanent Residence

Frequently asked questions

What is a good CRS score for Express Entry?

As of 2026, general draws have cutoffs around 480-520 CRS. Category-based draws for specific occupations can be lower (400-480).

How long does Express Entry take?

Processing time is typically 6 months after receiving ITA. The profile creation and waiting for ITA can take 3-12 months depending on your score.

Where this comes from

Official

IRCC — Express EntryVerified Mar 1, 2025

Official

IRCC — CRS ToolVerified Mar 1, 2025

Official

IRCC — Processing TimesVerified Mar 1, 2025

What this does not include: Provincial nuances, recent rule changes, and edge cases. Always cross-check the official IRCC page before submitting.

What would change this answer: An IRCC policy update, a new fee schedule, or a category-specific draw round.